
Member Reviews

THE FAULT BETWEEN US by STEPHANIE LANDSEM is set at the Yellowstone National Park in 1959 at the time of the Helgen Lake earthquake and tells the story of the three Reilly sisters and their bravery as they fight to save each other and other victims of the disaster. In fact the flood is a turning point in their lives, changing their attitudes towards one another and life in general. There is much prayer and repentance in the face of the horrific situation they find themselves in. The Christian message is strong, based largely on Psalm 46 verses 2 to 4 and verse 8, about God’s might and His protection. It is a story of forgiveness, trust, hope, redemption, family dynamics and second chances.
In the descriptions we are made aware of the magnitude of God’s creation.
This is a beautifully written book with a powerful message, and one I highly recommend.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Rating it a three stars because it’s unfair for me to DNF the novel and rate it lower than midway. I couldn’t get into the writing. I honestly felt confused on where the story would lead to and I wasn’t invested even after several chapters. I’m incredibly disappointed because I wanted to enjoy the novel, but I completely understand that someone else could love this book so much!!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me a chance to read this but I unfortunately could not finish it.

This book kept me on my toes. So rich in relationship with the various characters. It helped me to remember to always rely on God and know he directs my path.

The book is a multi POV historical fiction following the lives of 3 sisters immediately before and during the Hebgen Lake Earthquake.
The story is told from each sisters perspective as well as Red, Claire's husband. It takes each character on their own journey with the three sisters being linked by blood, trauma and their connection to faith. Whilst the second half of the book is a high stakes depiction of the characters during the disaster, the first half provides crucial backstory and connection with the sisters which helps the readers feel invested in the outcome for all the sisters and of course baby Jenny.
The characters were likeable and believable and it was easy to route for them. They all had their faults, their traumas and their growth and themes of faith, familial love and the perseverance of people in the face of an unimaginable disaster truly make this a brilliant book. The sisterly bond is reminiscent of the Charmed sisters especially with the mother connection which I really loved.
I wish I could read it for the first time again to fall in love with the characters. Well done Stephanie!